Arc 2: Grimm*****

A/N: I'm now on vacation from work, and found some time to finish this chapter. Narukami and a new story idea I had in mind may be released later this month, or next month. I make no promises, since it will only disappoint you guys.

I know it's late, but all I will say is I've been busy and I have priorities and responsibilities to take care of before I write. I will write when I have the chance...and my chance came in the past few days.

This chapter may not be very exciting, but is necessary. I'm constantly trying to improve my writing skills, but it is a slow process.

That being said, I hope you enjoy!

Disclaimer: I do not own the Naruto, RWBY, BLEACH, the Re: Monster Franchise or any of its characters. I am but a simple man, with a simple desire to write a fanfiction that has been plaguing my mind.

The only thing I own in this story are my theories, original characters, and scenarios that did not exist in the original stories.

Chapter 9: A Grimm Tale

"Tell me...how much do you believe in fairy tales?"

Naruto adopted a curious, yet confused look in his sunset eyes as he tried to make sense of the question. A strange, tense silence permeated through the air that seemed to signal the seriousness of this curveball question.

"I'm sorry...what?"

"Fairy tales, Naruto," repeated Oz, "Some confuse them with things like 'legends', 'myths', or other things of that nature; and while they do share some similarities, their core element is a bit more complex."

Oz approached Naruto in a slow, roundabout manner, as he twirled his cane in the midst of his explanation.

"Legends indicate some element of historical accuracy, and tell of real people, places, or things. A myth can also have a historical root, but are typically explained through supernatural phenomena like gods, demons, etc.

"A fairy tale, however, is something a bit more fantastic, in the sense that we 'know' certain things, beings, creatures, and places don't exist. We reject the reality of these existences because they can't be explained naturally. It might even be accurate to call such stories dreams we wish were true because of how impossible they seem."

Ozpin paused once he was a only few feet away from Naruto and rested his hands on his cane. He looked into his eyes, as if here were searching for something.

"If you were to hear of one such story, how likely would you be to believe it?"

Naruto thought it was a bit ridiculous to believe in something only a child would. Going by what Oz said, fairy tales seem to be stories that parents read to their kids before going to sleep, and served mainly as a tale for entertainment.

Why believe in something that was made for the purpose of entertainment?

...But when he started to reflect on his residual memories and circumstances, these things didn't seem all that absurd anymore.

He knew that many things in his old world would be considered nothing more than fantasy to Remnant. Humans called shinobi were capable of astonishing things like commanding and shaping the elements from nothing more than a few hand movements.

They were able to summon things like oversized, talking toads and snakes that fought like shinobi and aided them in battle. Some even managed to bring the dead back to life to serve as nothing more than slaves to battle...that little tidbit was hard forget considering how many times he experienced that situation in his previous life.

On a grander scale, there were tailed beasts the size of mountains with powers beyond that of normal humans by a great margin. They could alter the terrain with a single step, and destroy settlements as easy as breathing.

The crazy fact, however, was how these beasts were only a fraction of what it truly was. An omnipotent, primordial being of destruction known as the Juubi.

But again, this world and that world are two different worlds.

"...I think it's possible for these tales to hold some truth."

"Oh?" Said Oz.

"While it is possible, I still say it's improbable. I believe in what I see, not hear."

"I see…then I'll suppose you'll have to humor me then."

I had a feeling he was going somewhere with this, he thought.

"Tell me...what is your favorite fairy tale, Naruto?"

His response from said Grimm was a deadpan stare that lasted for more than a few awkward moments.

"...I'm a Grimm, Oz. Where the hell would I hear of any fairy tales?"

Whatever Oz was going to follow up with was cut short as he realized his oversight...well, he did say he's made more mistakes than anyone in Remnant.

"I'm not sure if you noticed this, but people aren't exactly fond of Grimm, Ozzy. I can't exactly go up to them and say, 'Hey guys, can you tell me a bedtime story? I'm just an adowable wittle Gwimm. Pwease don't kill me!'" he said, putting on the act of an adorable little fox, before crossing two of his tails in front of him, like arms, whilst giving Oz an incredulous look.

"I would sooner have a bullet in my head than some heartwarming tale...that, or be dissected. I kind of break the norm of what Grimm should be capable of, and I can just imagine how many mad scientists would love to get a hold of me."

"Ah...right, my apologies." said Oz as he coughed into his hand. "You are just so much more articulate than the rest of your species, it becomes easy to forget that you are a Grimm."

"I'll admit were not exactly bright compared to humans...but fuck you."

"Now now, watch your Language." said Oz with a wag of his finger.

"'Now now, get to the point already," mocked Naruto with a wag of his tail. "I don't have all day, Oz. I don't need my herd searching for me just to bump into you. God knows what sort of chaos that would become."

"*Ahem* Right...well, some common stories that exist here on remnant are ones like 'The Shallow Sea', 'The Girl in the Tower', 'The Story of the Seasons'...and the list goes on."

Naruto wasn't lying earlier when he said he had never "heard" of any fairy tales...but he didn't say he didn't know any.

When Oz first brought up fairy tales, he had been silent because he had received some knowledge from Monty, and was slowly absorbing some of it.

Even after receiving the knowledge of fairy tales, he still had to play the part of an ignorant Grimm. It would seem even more absurd if he had heard some of the lore in remnant.

"Where are you going with this, Oz?"

"Well, I'd like to share one in particular," said Oz, which seemed to draw a curious look from the three-tailed fox. "And I believe it may help you in understanding your species a little more; it is one even I believe in...'The Tale of Two Brothers'."

A hint of doubt could be seen in his eyes, but the swaying of his tails told Ozbourne he was pretty invested into the conversation. And why wouldn't he be? Ozbourne knew that Naruto had a great desire to learn more about himself and his species; a desire he was beginning to share as well with the young fox. "You're saying I can learn more about the Grimm from this tale of yours?" said Naruto.

"It is more of a religion than a tale, to be honest, but not everyone in humanity believes as such. With how long the world has existed, people were bound to create dozens of different gods, and goddesses." said Oz.

While he carried on, Naruto was waiting for an influx of information to come to him like the one about 'The Story of the Seasons' had...but nothing came.

Strange, he thought. I'm not getting any information like usual.

Throughout the years, Naruto had grown accustomed to randomly receiving information about different things thanks to Monty. He found that if a topic was brought up, it would light a spark in his mind and allow him to obtain some knowledge about it. He figured that would be the same case this time as well, especially considering how significant this Fairy Tale is...but there was nothing.

Something isn't right, he thought before refocusing his attention back to Ozbourne. If he wasn't going to learn this topic the easy way, then he'll have to be attentive.

Oz continued, "But if there was one religion I could recommend as factual, it would be this one. 'The Tale of Two Brothers' is about Two siblings, one older and one younger; gods who filled Remnant with both life and destruction."

Naruto noticed how Oz had a look of admiration, worship, and respect; something unusual for the grey haired man. He had never took the eccentric, coffee addicted man to be someone who believed in 'faith' so wholeheartedly. What seemed even more odd was how he talked about these gods with a sense of familiarity. Almost as if he knew them personally.

That can't be right though, Naruto mused.

"The Older brother would spend his days creating water, plants and wildlife...but as you could probably imagine from two polar opposites, the younger brother would discover his sibling's creations at night and become disgusted. In response, he brought drought, fire and famine to the world to counter these creations."

Oz sighed in sadness, something Naruto caught, but had no intention to address at the moment.

"Yet life persevered and adapted to the younger brother's destruction, frustrating the god even further. So one night, the younger brother made something...something which shared his innate desire to destroy anything and everything the older brother created-"

"The Grimm." Said Naruto.

Ozbourne paused at the interruption, nodding slowly in affirmation.

"Your saying that our existence- no, our very reason for existence was meant for destruction?" said Naruto in a tone laced with traces of irritation and anger. Oz could only remain silent at this, but that was all the answer Naruto needed to confirm the thoughts of the gray-haired eccentric.

"Oz, you've known me for about a year now. You know what I think and how I feel about different things. The fact I can think and feel in the first place should show you that, us Grimm," Naruto paused as he gave Oz a pointed look of confidence and conviction in his words and beliefs. "We are more than the monsters we were painted to be."

Naruto believed this fact completely. He's seen the growth of his herd first-hand and is intimately aware of the potential Grimm possess. Despite being a member of the race of dark creatures, he is still trying to learn and understand what secrets their bodies may hold for the future.

He knew it would be a long journey, but it was a challenge he was willing to make. Monty had told him already that 'there was so much more to Grimm than meets the eye', and he was going to prove this fact to the world.

"Of course, Naruto," Spoke Oz with a smile, "I meant no offense by what I said. While I do believe your purpose was meant for destruction originally, it does not mean that would hold true forever."

Oz approached Naruto once more, patting his head lightly with a sense of comfort. He saw Naruto frown at the gesture out of annoyance, but took no action to move away from the offending hand. "If that truly was the only reason for your existence, would I still be standing before you right now?

"I approached you because I saw that you were the key to changing these, once, mindless race of creatures into something greater. A purpose beyond what the gods initially placed on you. Change is the only constant in the universe, after all, and I believe that to be true with your kind as well."

Oz's smile seemed to be contagious as a grin etched its way onto Naruto's face. "Tch, you and your philosophical bullshit, it makes you sound like an old man. You really give that grey hair of yours some justice."

"How rude."

The two snickered for a moment, before Naruto adopted a curious expression. "How old are you, anyways? You don't look a day over thirty, yet you-"

-look like someone whos experienced a lifetime of turmoil.

Naruto left his original sentence hang in the air, and finished the rest within his thoughts. While the two were good friends at this point, they both had rights to their own secrets. Naruto never planned to share the fact that this world isn't where he belonged, and in fact came from one where shinobi were gifted with a plethora of powers that made this place seem like a playground in comparison.

This type of knowledge would come with a plethora of problems; problems he didn't have the patience to handle right now. There's just too much going on, with growth and survival being the most important things at present.

If the guy didn't want to share, then that's that. He would wait till the man is ready.

Oz caught Naruto's action, and gave him an appreciative smile. "You'll know with time, my friend. You'd be surprised."

"I'm surprised you're still rubbing my head." said Naruto with a snap of his jaws.

Oz managed to flinch away before the fox could leave a mark on his hand. "I'm not a pet, ya caffeinated coot!

"And don't you have a story to finish?"

"*Ahem*, it seems we got a tad bit sidetracked," Oz said, coughing into his hand. "So, where was I?"

"Ah, yes, the creation of the Grimm. After untold destruction was wrought through their birth, it didn't take long for the older brother to discover what his sibling had done. Weary of their feud, the god of life proposed that they work together to create something they could both be proud of.

"This creature would possess the ability to create, and destroy. It would possess the gift of knowledge; to be aware of the acts that resulted from their actions, learn from them, and grow. But their final gift, is perhaps the most significant of them all."

Naruto, curious about what this final gift was, perked his ears and leaned in, in interest.

He waited for the answer to come.

And waited.

...and waited.

"...I get the feeling people find you annoying."—Naruto crossed his tails, like a human would their arms if they were irritated—"I sure as hell do."

"I figured a long pause would give it a more dramatic effect," said Oz, raising a questioning brow. "Too much?"

"Just get back to it, Oz."

"Well,"—Oz struck a lax, cross-armed pose—"What if I don't want to?"

"...I'm leaving."

Naruto didn't have time for this shit. He didn't like to leave his herd alone for too long. It was filled with too many unique personalities that he couldn't help but worry for. No Grimm he made contact with was ever normal.

Naruto hopped off the stump he was resting on and began to trot away when he heard the eccentric man began to laugh lowly.

"My apologies, Naruto. I just wanted to make a statement," he said, before he motioned his hand for Naruto to listen once more.

He obligated the old man, if only because of his ever present curiosity. He sat on the stump once more as he gave Ozbourne his attention.

"Before I continue,"—Oz heard Naruto grumble 'Of course' under his breath, but chose to ignore this—"I would like to ask, why do you dislike eating humans?"

Oz saw Naruto freeze up noticeably, but continued. "You've told me in the past that your biology as a Grimm almost forces you to consume human flesh. And I know you still do.

"But the difference between you and the Grimm this world has come to know, is that you only consume humans that are dead to sate your hunger, where a normal Grimm doesn't care for these facts. Why is that?"

When Naruto first met Oz, it wasn't the most pleasant of meetings. It was a battle that scarred the earth and ruined the environment...and he was the one who came out with the short end of the stick.

While Naruto possessed experience as a shinobi, it was much different fighting in the form of the fox. In place of all his old abilities were new powers he had yet to understand, let alone master them. Ozbourne, however, had years of experience and time to master and improve his abilities to the peak.

It was a battle, that honestly, should've resulted in his demise.

Thank god for the man's natural curiosity to the bizarre, he thought.

At the end of the battle, Oz approached Naruto with good intentions; something Naruto could feel due to his nature as a Grimm, and natural affinity toward negative emotions. It wasn't long after where Naruto began to share with Oz the irresistible urges Grimm seem to have, and how even now Naruto experiences them.

Their initial relationship was formed of mutual exchange. Oz would share world events and his information on Grimm, while Naruto would share his own experiences and collection of information on them. After a few months, however, it quickly evolved into one of friendship and trust since they were both forthright with each other, and Naruto couldn't detect any bad intentions from the man.

To reassure the man, he also mentioned that he only consumed humans who were already deceased, and never actively hunted them. The conversation was left at that for a while, but it seems that Oz decided to bring that discussion back to light for some reason.

The problem with this question, however, is that the answer is so much more complicated than Oz realizes. The source stems from Naruto's humanity, something he possessed in his old life and brought into the body of a soulless fox Grimm. It wasn't something that could be passed off as age and experience, because it was clear by his size that this wasn't the case.

It was a secret Naruto didn't feel ready to share, simply because of how unbelievable it was.

Ozbourne could sense there was an internal struggle going on, and knew the situation was more complicated than it seemed.

He smiled nonetheless and said, "You don't have to share the reason, Naruto. It is your choice, whether or not you decide to reveal any information to me. Much like it was your choice to consume only the humans who had already passed on, versus those who continue to actively hunt your kind down.

"I chose to pause my story for reasons unbeknownst to you, and you chose to leave once you grew weary of my antics."

A light bulb seemed to go off in Naruto's head as he started to understand what it was Oz was trying to get at with his story. "The right to decide your fate...the power of choice, that's what you're trying to get at, right?" he said lowly, but loud enough for Ozbourne to catch it.

Oz nodded with a smile, "Correct. The brothers gifted these creatures the right to choose whether they would use their gifts to create, or to destroy. And with those four great gifts, my dear fox, humanity came to be."

"I see...so what happened to the brothers afterwards?"

Oz shrugged his shoulders. "Who knows? It's believed they separated themselves from the world shortly afterward, leaving fate to their creations."

Naruto nodded at this, but various thoughts began to intrude his mind as he reflected on the story he just heard. From the way Oz carried himself and how intimate he seemed to be in regards to the "Tale of Two Brothers," Naruto could guess that he must've had contact with these "gods" at some point.

But from what he gathered in from Oz as he told his story, was that he didn't seem to be aware of one other particular being Naruto had met; the creator of this universe, Monty Oum.

Naruto saw first hand the power Monty held, and even heard him admit that the world of Remnant and its inhabitants truly belong to him; it was simply impossible to fake the sincerity and genuine care Monty held over these beings when he discussed them. As powerful as Monty seemed, even he admitted that he wasn't a true god, and was merely a creator that was responsible for this universe. Knowing all this made Naruto question that, if Oz's story were true, what role did these "gods" play?

Monty mentioned that these 'worlds' that creators construct are originally works of fiction, he thought. That they were nothing more than 'fabrications meant for entertainment', so in other words...stories? Tales?

If that's the case, then these "gods" must be a mechanic he made to explain the creation of his story. Wait—Naruto paused, reflecting on his talk with Monty—not a story. I believe he called it...an 'animated series'?

Naruto was slowly coming to an understanding of how this world worked, despite there still being some pretty large gaps in information. Even if he didn't have evidence that the story Ozbourne held was true, he couldn't deny the genuine emotions the man felt as he told it. To him, it didn't seem like he was a religious follower speaking of someone almighty; it felt more like he was talking about someone dear to him.

It was how personal and connected Oz felt as he told the story that convinced Naruto that this story must hold some truth, at the very least.

Oz found it strange how Naruto remained silent since he finished his story, but left the fox to his thoughts. It did seem unbelievable.

It was only a few moments later when Naruto cast him a questioning gaze. "Ya know, for beings made with the purpose to destroy, we're pretty peaceful unless humans are involved." said Naruto.

"Oh? How so?" said Oz.

"I mean, the younger brother made us to destroy the older's one's creations, right? That was before humanity was created...so why don't I hear any stories of Grimm destroying nature? Even now, I've yet to witness the Grimm destroy life around them on purpose, unless it had to do with humans. Why is that?"

Naruto was reminded of the time he first hunted down a deer because of his hunger pains. Pumbaa and Gordy had given him a look as if he were a crazed Grimm. Despite their lack of knowledge, a grimm saw him as insane for attacking nature, but see no fault in attacking a human.

Perhaps it was because they knew it was grotesque in comparison to a human, but that only begs another question if that were the case.

Why can't they eat animals? Why don't they offend nature?

...and why do humans taste so good? Thought Naruto. It was a morbid thing to consider, but Naruto couldn't help but feel that humans were abnormally delicious. As if they were nourishing his very existence.

"Hmmm...now that you mention it," said Oz, eyes widening slowly as the question, truly, sunk in. "What you say holds true. Grimm may have once done things like that in the past, but now the focus just seems to be more on faunus-kind and humanity.

"Strange...why have I never thought this before?"

"Well, there's probably been no reason to think about that sort of perspective, considering people were more worried about their lives and how to defend against Grimm, rather than understand why it doesn't bother to knock over some trees or eat animals."

Naruto wasn't fully confident in the answer himself, and didn't really feel that bringing up how delicious and nourishing a human was would be appropriate.

"Perhaps," Oz said, stroking his chin with a pondering look. "It's certainly something worth thinking about. Not many things pique my curiosity these days.

"Well, not since I discovered a talking fox-Grimm that could feel emotions, and somehow evolve his herd through its aura. Something that should be impossible for Grimm to possess in the first place."—Ozbourne shrugs his shoulder—"But, I digress."

Naruto's tails twitched in irritation. "I think I've had enough 'Oz' for one day, I'm gonna go check on the herd. Floyd can only sit still for so long."

"Ah, the Geist Grimm, right? What an odd fellow, he is. I've never heard of human, let alone a Grimm, to have such a...colorful personality, so to speak."

Naruto snorted at that statement, finding it ridiculous based on whose mouth it just came out of.

"That's rich coming from you."

"Now that wasn't necessary. I consider myself to be a more curious, and unconventional individual."

"More like bizarre and erratic. Anyway," said Naruto, "I gotta go. Thanks for the story, Oz. It's given me some things to think about. I'll let you know if I'm onto something."

As Naruto prepared to leap into the red forestry, Oz called out to him once more.

"Before you go, I have to ask: How has 'he' been since we last talked?"

Naruto didn't turn around, but Oz could imagine the frown that replaced the fox's typical grin.

"He's-" Naruto stopped, not exactly sure how to answer. "It's...complicated, Oz. We'll talk about it another time."

"I see," said Oz, nodding his head. "Well, until next time, my friend. I wish you the best in your pursuit to learn about Grimm."

Naruto inclined his head in understanding before finally leaving Oz in the clearing alone. He continued to watch the fox leave even after he was no longer in sight.

"I hope you can succeed where I have failed, Naruto, and truly come to understand them...in more ways than one."

With Naruto's herd

"I just don't get it Marty! What is wrong with that Grimm?! I mean, I know we're unreasonable by nature, but him?! It's too much!"

"Mike, just calm down."

"I am Calm!"

What the hell did I just walk into? Thought Naruto

It hasn't been long since Naruto left Oz to come back to his herd, and only moments after entering his territory did he see two familiar beowolves barking at each other.

Naruto couldn't help but shake his head at the two. This had become a familiar scene to him since they gained personalities of their own. Mike would always be angered by something, and Marty would attempt to console him so he didn't hurt anyone in his frustration.

"Mike, why don't we-"

Marty froze when he looked passed Mike's shoulder and saw a three-tailed fox grimm standing only a few meters away from the two.

"'Why don't we' what, Marty? Why'd you freeze up?" said Mike, unaware of their Alpha behind him. "You alright?"

Marty lifted his...finger? Claw? Whatever it was, and pointed in Naruto's direction.

"What, is it that bastard Floyd again?! I am not in the mood for his shit right now! I'm gonna-"—Mike turned around in fury, only to still and stutter at the sight of Naruto— "gonna, err- uh...hey, Lord Naruto. I mean-"

It took only a second after realizing who the Grimm was before them, for the two beowolves to stand at attention like a soldier. Where the two Grimm learned how to do that, Naruto didn't know.

"Lord Naruto, SIR! GRIMM! Alpha SIR!" said both Grimm, almost incoherently.

Naruto could only sigh at his given titles. Ganesha had conditioned practically the whole herd in a militant fashion. No matter what, he still couldn't escape any titles of hierarchy.

Is it really that difficult to just call me 'Naruto'? He thought.

"Relax, guys, I just got back. No need to be all stiff."

"No can do, Alpha sir!"

"Lord Ganesha specifically stated you liked to be referred to as Alpha, Sir!"

Naruto twitched at that.

"He said that, did he?" said Naruto, his canines beginning to grind together in frustration.

Looks like I may need to have another word with that shrewd mammoth.

Naruto refocused his gaze at the two Grimm who remained still as a statue. "Were you guys talking about Floyd again?"

Mike and Marty finally motioned a look to another, blinking in confusion.

"Look, I know he can be annoying, an ass, flippant, eccentric, glib-" said Naruto, stopping once he saw he was going off tangent.

"*Ahem*, well, the point is that he's a part of the herd now, and will be with us for the long haul. No matter how much we may regret it…" he said, though the last part was muttered low enough for them not to catch it.

Naruto waited for the two to say something in response, but all he received was silence.

"You guys can answer me. Why do you look so lost?"

"Well," said Mike. "While I do agree with everything you said and more, alpha, he wasn't who I was complaining about."

"Hm?"

"Did you not hear, Lord Naruto?" said Marty.

Naruto shot him a blank stare as if to say, 'Really?'

"Ah, right. You just got back," said Marty, realizing his mistake. "Well, Lord Loki came back with some injuries. There were some arrows sticking out of his back-"

"Loki?" Naruto said, cutting Marty off with a frown and worried look. "Is he alright?"

Despite the differences Naruto may share with the Nuckelavee, he treated everyone in his herd the same—as family. He couldn't help but worry over the injuries of his herd, no matter who they are. Not since he lost Gordy.

No matter how long time had passed, Naruto was still affected by the loss of one of his original herd members. It left a mark on his heart that still ached to this day, and reinforced his conviction to understand and protect the Grimm with his whole being. It was like he had lost a younger brother that day.

"The horned bastard seemed fine to me." said Mike. He didn't bother hiding the contempt behind his words, and practically spat the statement out within his growls.

"Mike...Lord Naruto-"

"Will understand!" Said Mike, stopping Marty from reprimanding him. While he didn't want to offend their Alpha, he did want Naruto to understand his thoughts. If there was something the whole herd could agree on, it was that Naruto held genuine care and responsibility for their growth and safety. He took the time to question them about their developing personalities, answered their growing concerns, and consoled them when they felt pain for the first time.

Mike wouldn't admit this to the public, but some have come to treat him as their father in some ways; and Mike was no different. Because of this, he wanted his father to understand where he was coming from, if only to vent his evolving feelings and frustrations with the presence of the Nuckelavee.

"Naruto," —Naruto shook in surprise, noting the lack of title — "He doesn't treat us the same way you do. Yea, Floyd is annoying as all hell, but I don't look down on him. He's strong, and I can respect that.

"But Loki, he doesn't seem to respect anyone, save for you. I asked him if he was okay earlier, and you want to know what he told me?"

His breath was short, with fury etched into every bark he made. 'Anyone' was practically a growl, and Naruto was beginning to grow concerned for the beowolf. He had never seen him so enraged.

"'You are nothing more than fodder for the herd. Your sympathy is unnecessary.'" said Mike, breathless with a torrent of hostility beginning to storm his surroundings.

"He doesn't see me as anything! Not just me, but he looks at everyone with apathy in his eyes; as if there is no meaning to know us. In his eyes, we just don't compare!"

Silence gripped the world by the neck for a moment. Not a breeze was felt. Not a sound was made. The three Grimm were stuck in a quiet state for what seemed like hours, but were nothing more than a few minutes.

Naruto said nothing, waiting for Mike to calm down even if it was only a bit. His patience seemed to have paid off as the hairs on Mike that stood on end receded back, along with the rage he had felt.

"Lord Naruto," spoke Mike, more mellow now that he managed to vent his thoughts. "I know how you see us. But Loki...he's not the same."

He isn't one of us.

Naruto didn't need to read minds to understand this was how he felt.

Naruto looked at Marty, and could see the tacit agreement through his actions. His shoulders were still, and eyes were overshadowed in a negative whirl of emotions that were difficult to comprehend. Perhaps what sold it was the slight nod and silence that remained when Mike finished his words.

It seems...that Mike isn't the only one being affected around here, he thought.

Naruto didn't know what to say for a moment. The Grimm were still new to the emotions they were feeling, so tackling these issues were a delicate matter. This wasn't limited to just the new members, but Loki and the other lords as well.

"Mike...Marty...I will never see you that way, and I never have," he said. "Loki is...he's like you; new to his emotions and confused by these feelings. While we all feel many things, we're ultimately guided by a single emotion."

He looked to Marty, "You feel more 'concern', hence why you try to look out for Mike and the other Grimm so much. And you,"—he then looked to Mike—"are driven driven by anger. Floyd is one of the rare ones, motivated by a positive emotion- whimsy, in his case.

"And Loki? He's…" he stopped, unsure of how to articulate what the Nuckelavee feels. "for him...he's consumed by grudge and enmity. A very powerful emotion. Unfortunately, it's not in the good way."

While most of the Grimm despise the humans, that is normally only shown when they are around. His herd is typically fine without the presence of humans, and only become tense or show signs of instability when they sense human negativity.

Loki, however, drowns in his hate all the time. Naruto has no clue why this is the case; the horse-like Grimm isn't exactly the most open of the bunch. Trying to understand the root of his grudge is risky, and may set him off in a way that may be irreparable.

Naruto decided to wait until he was ready to share, but it seems he could no longer be so patient. Not when he has become more volatile.

"I'll go talk to him. I don't tolerate his thoughts on the herd. Just know that what he says doesn't speak for the rest of the lords. You're all invaluable."

Though his words did comfort the two Grimm, it was only to a shallow extent. Loki used words that dug deep into their existence, and could never be removed. He stained their thoughts with this new outlook on their purpose, and perhaps it will carry on for years to come. Unfortunately, only time will tell how deep these wounds will last for.

"Why don't you rest, for now? Just leave things up to me."

His only response was a curt, 'Yes, Lord Naruto', before they motioned to leave. Despite their dark turn their mood had taken, a look of appreciation could be discerned from their developing aura.

Naruto watched the beowolves drudge away with a look of sympathy, and disappointment in Loki. He looked in the direction he would be able to find the demonic half-man, half-horse Grimm and sighed.

"Haaah~...Loki…"

A/N: End of Chapter

Thank you guys for being patient with me. I'll do my best to release the next chapter as soon as I can.

As I mentioned before, please comment, question, and/or criticize so I may improve as a writer. I'm constantly learning, and wish to continue doing so.

I won't answer questions about story elements or what may happen in the future. I intentionally leave some gaps of information, to be filled in for later. Otherwise, it wouldn't be much of a mystery.

Thanks again for your support, and I will continue to write when I can.

~Stay Cool, but don't Freeze